Which Kitchen Counter Is The One For You?

The most important kitchen decision is likely the type of material to use for your kitchen counter-top. Not only it has to look great with your kitchen cabinets, you’ll also want a kitchen surface that suits your usage patterns and cooking styles. As importantly is the ease of cleaning and maintenance which again is a factor that’s directly influenced by the amount of use and beating your counter is going to see.

Let’s breakdown the characteristics of the four most popular counter-top materials to help you choose one that works best for your new shiny kitchen!

Solid surface

Why choose this :

Hygenic – Being totally waterproof means that solid surfaces will never retain liquids and spills and turn soggy over time

Easy to clean – Easily wipe clean solid surface tops because there are no pores to trap and accumulate dirt and grease

Pleasing to the eyes – Unlike their stone or wood counterparts, a solid surface is man-made and usually come in 1 full-length piece without unsightly joint lines. It can also be moulded to create a perfect integration with your basin

Wide range of colours – If you are considering a coloured countertop, then a solid surface like Corian might be the way to go

Best for :

Food prep for children especially babies

Busy people with little time / energy for extensive cleaning

Reconsider if :

You have a habit of placing hot pots and pans directly on the counter as some solid surface tops might not stand up to the intense heat

You prefer a natural look like wood or stone

Wood

Why choose this :

Natural goodness – A wooden counter-top creates a warm and environmentally friendly vibe around the kitchen

Beautiful grains – If rustic and country styles strike a chord with you, then a wooden counter is your best friend

Best for :

Green lovers looking to incorporate a nature theme in their homes and kitchens

People who have the time and desire to put in the effort to maintain a pristine kitchen

Reconsider if :

You cannot stand imperfections like scratches and stain marks which are all too common to happen with wood counters

You are a hygiene freak and gross out at the sight of dirt and possibly mold which will inevitably get trapped between the wood’s grains

You are a busy or low-maintenance kitchen user as a wooden counter-top requires regular oiling and sanding to retain its original beauty

Stone

Why choose this :

Lasting – A granite, marble or a man-made stone like quartz can last you a lifetime